MANILA — As the agency continues to push for the automation of its certification system, and establish a monitoring system on the sector’s energy use, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) will be launching two digital projects by 2024.

The two digital projects — MARINA Blockchain-Enabled Automated Certification System (BEST), and the Maritime Energy Demand Information and Analysis Software (MEDIANS) — were introduced to the general public through a virtual orientation on 06 November 2023. The said initiative is aligned with the sector’s long-term updated Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028.

MARINA BEST, which is targeted to be rolled-out in June 2024, is a blockchain-enabled technology web application that aims to improve online services, allowing contactless transactions. Through this, all applications will be online in real-time, accessible through web or mobile, using electronic certificates and licenses. MARINA clients can pay their dues online, as well as they can track and update their transactions. It also offers notifications for certificate expiration. It covers various agency processes, involving shipyard operators, seafarers, and more.
MARINA will start its training on BEST to each regional office from January to May 2024.

MEDIANS, on the other hand, is a system that deals with energy use and pollution of maritime transport — a campaign that has been supported by the country for several years now.
MEDIANS will collect data on the environment and quickly estimate how much energy ships use and the gasses they emit based on their activities.

MEDIANS offers cloud-based monitoring, energy demand calculations, predictions, and policy assessments; with modules including monitoring energy use and efficiency, emissions calculations, and ship registration. It also helps with reporting voyages, energy use, and loads.